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Offered languages
- English
Discover the rich history of Kansas City on a captivating 2-hour walking tour led by local guide Laura of Cowtown Tours. This journey begins at one of the oldest city markets and explores the confluence of two rivers that shaped the area. Learn about the indigenous tribes, Lewis & Clark's expedition, and the steamboats that once dominated the waterways. Encounter stories of courage from the underground railroad and the entrepreneurial spirit of women in the River Market. Experience stunning murals and historic landmarks that illustrate the vibrant past of this river town.
- 2-hour walking tour revealing Kansas City's rich history
- Explore the Town of Kansas Bridge and its historical significance
- View the Steamboat Arabia Museum (entry not included)
- Hear intriguing stories of gamblers, gangsters, and the area’s development
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet your guide under the City Market sign, near the entrance to Brown & Loe Restaurant.
Itinerary
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1Arabia Steamboat Museum
The Arabia Steamboat's story is amazing. She was a 171-foot, wood-burning side-wheeler built in 1853 that operated on the Missouri River, transporting passengers and up to 222 tons of cargo. It sank on September 5, 1856, after hitting a tree snag, but was rediscovered in 1988 buried 45 feet underground in a Kansas cornfield. The perfectly preserved cargo is now displayed in the museum below the paddlewheel. We'll make a stop here to talk about some of the unique items in the collection.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Established in 1857, the City Market is one of the oldest and largest farmers' markets in the Midwest, serving as a historic hub for trade and commerce. It was the epicenter of the early "Town of Kansas," acting as a key shipping and trading post for pioneers, riverboats, and farmers near the Missouri River. Today, it survives as a revitalized urban center, featuring local vendors, the Arabia Steamboat Museum, and restaurants. At this stop, you'll hear stories of the early market vendors and meet some of the current stall owners.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Lewis & Clark Historic Park at Kaw Point
The Lewis & Clark Expedition 1804 Mural is a large public artwork located in the River Market district. Commissioned in 2004 for the bicentennial, it features Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, Sacagawea, and the Corps of Discovery along the Missouri River. While we will not get all the way to Kaw Point during this walking tour, we will see several majestic and historic murals, including the Town of Kansas 1850.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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